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  • 10/17/2025
  • Reading time 1 min.

EXplained: MCQST with Barbara Kraus and Ignacio Cirac

Quantum science as the basis for new technologies

In the “EXplained” series, we provide insights into our university's seven Clusters of Excellence. One of these is the Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (MCQST), represented by Barbara Kraus, Chair of Quantum Algorithms and Applications, and Ignacio Cirac, Professor at TUM and Director at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics.

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Quantum technologies are set to be one of the key innovations of the future. They offer significant advances in computing power, communication, and sensor technology that surpass the capabilities of classical systems. The MCQST Cluster of Excellence is researching the fundamentals of these technologies while advancing their practical application.

This research focuses on fundamental questions of quantum physics: How can complex quantum systems be controlled? Which new materials and platforms are suitable for quantum computers and sensors? How can the fragile behavior of quantum phenomena be utilized stably? During the second funding phase, the cluster will expand its foundational research on quantum entanglement to enable novel applications in data processing, communication, metrology, sensor technology, materials science, chemistry, and medicine.

With MCQST, Munich is developing into a globally recognized center for quantum technologies

Prof. Ignacio Cirac

MCQST has been funded by the German Research Foundation since 2019 as part of its Excellence Strategy. Joint applicants are the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Also involved are the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics, the Walther Meissner Institute of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities and the Deutsches Museum.

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Logos of Federal Ministry of Education and Research and Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts


Funded as part of the Excellence Strategy of the federal and state governments

Technical University of Munich

Corporate Communications Center

Contacts to this article:

Prof. Dr. Barbara Kraus
Professorship for Quantum Algorithms and Applications
TUM School of Natural Sciences

Prof. Dr. Ignacio Cirac
Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics
Honorary Professor at the TUM School of Natural Sciences

 

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